Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a highly structured therapeutic approach that combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with principles of mindfulness and acceptance. Originally developed for individuals experiencing intense emotions or struggling with self-destructive behaviours, DBT has proven to be effective in supporting people of all ages in managing their mental health. In this blog, we will explore what DBT is, how it can be tailored to meet the needs of both children and adults, and what DBT sessions typically entail.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is rooted in the idea that individuals can benefit from finding balance between acceptance and change. The word “dialectical” refers to this dual focus: accepting one’s current experiences while simultaneously working to improve their emotional wellbeing and behaviours. This approach is particularly helpful for individuals who experience intense, overwhelming emotions and need support to manage them in healthier ways.

DBT focuses on four core modules:

• Mindfulness: Becoming fully aware and present in the moment;
• Distress Tolerance: Learning to tolerate pain or discomfort rather than reacting impulsively;
• Emotion Regulation: Managing and understanding one’s emotional responses; and,
• Interpersonal Effectiveness: Improving relationships and communication skills.

How DBT can Support Children

DBT is adaptable for children who struggle with intense emotions, mood swings, or impulsive behaviours. By using developmentally appropriate techniques, therapists can help children learn self-regulation skills, develop mindfulness, and improve their ability to handle challenging situations. DBT is often modified to incorporate games, visual aids, storytelling, and role-playing, making these skills accessible and engaging for younger clients.

Common DBT techniques for children:

• Mindfulness Exercises: Children learn to focus on the present moment through practicing deep breathing, sensory observation, or guided imagery. These skills help children become more aware of their emotions and bodily responses.
• Emotional Vocabulary Building: By learning to label and understand their emotions, children can better communicate how they feel and start to regulate their responses. Therapists may use emotion charts or “feelings faces” to help children name and recognize different emotions.
• Distress Tolerance Skills: Children are taught ways to handle difficult feelings in a constructive way, such as squeezing a stress ball, using grounding techniques, or engaging in safe physical activities.
• Interpersonal Skills Training: Through role-playing and guided practice, children develop skills to navigate social challenges, ask for help, and resolve conflicts.

Benefits of DBT for Children:

• Teaches self-regulation and distress tolerance skills;
• Encourages emotional awareness and resilience;
• Helps children develop healthy ways of coping with big emotions; and,
• Supports positive interactions with peers and family members.

How DBT can Support Adults

DBT has been widely recognized as effective for managing a range of emotional challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. DBT helps adults become aware of their thinking patterns, develop emotional resilience, and improve communication with others.

Common DBT techniques for adults:

• Mindfulness Meditation: DBT encourages adults to regularly practice mindfulness to foster awareness and reduce emotional reactivity. This can include exercises such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or focusing on sensations in the body.
• Distress Tolerance Strategies: Adults learn techniques to manage stress and intense emotions without feeling the need to escape or avoid them. Strategies may include engaging in grounding techniques, using distraction techniques, or practicing radical acceptance.
• Emotion Regulation Exercises: DBT provides tools to understand and control emotional responses. This includes identifying triggers, assessing emotional intensity, and practicing coping skills that allow individuals to regulate their responses more effectively.
• Interpersonal Effectiveness Training: Adults learn to communicate assertively, set boundaries, and nurture healthier relationships. DBT provides tools to express needs clearly, handle conflict constructively, and build meaningful connections.

Benefits of DBT for adults:

• Reduces impulsive or self-destructive behaviours by teaching healthier coping skills;
• Promotes emotional stability and resilience;
• Supports the development of mindfulness and awareness of thoughts and feelings; and,
• Encourages healthy communication and positive relationship skills.

What do Therapy Sessions Look Like?

DBT sessions are typically structured and skill-focused. Sessions often incorporate both individual and group components. Individual therapy focuses on the client’s personal experiences, while group sessions provide opportunities to practice DBT skills in a supportive environment. DBT may also involve completing skills worksheets or engaging in at-home practices between sessions to reinforce learning and apply skills to real-life situations.

DBT is flexible, offering in-person and online options for those who may have difficulty attending in-office appointments. This adaptability makes DBT an accessible choice for individuals at any stage of life who are ready to take control of their emotional wellbeing.

Next Steps

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy can be a powerful tool for managing intense emotions, improving communication, and developing resilience. For both children and adults, DBT provides practical, skill-based support to help them handle life’s challenges in healthier, more productive ways. If you are considering DBT for yourself or a loved one, Willow and Sage Counselling is here to help. We offer in-person sessions in Surrey and Burnaby, as well as online options to make therapy accessible and convenient. Reach out today to schedule an initial consultation and explore how DBT can support your mental health journey. Taking this step could be the start of a new, more balanced approach to managing emotions and fostering positive change.